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Play is a large part of your little one’s early development, teaching them valuable skills that they’ll carry as they grow. While structured play comes with amazing benefits, so does independent play.
Independence is an important quality kids need to develop as they progress through life. Unlike structured play, independent play is a key way for your child to explore and learn about themselves, while developing skills like problem solving and creativity.
We’ll take you through all the benefits of letting your little one play solo and the toys that are perfect to encourage this independent play.
What are the benefits of independent play?
There’s no need to feel guilty about booking your kiddo in for some solo playtime. Independent play helps young kids develop a number of important skills, such as:
- Creativity and imagination.
- Problem-solving and persistence.
- Confidence.
- Self-regulation.
- Focus.
To top it off, teaching your kids to love independent play has an extra advantage for busy parents – it means a few precious moments of freedom in your day so you can get all the things you need done (and if you’re lucky, the opportunity to relax and put your feet up for a few moments).
Let’s look at some easy strategies you can use to encourage independent play for your little ones.
Create a designated play area
Giving your kids a space where they’ll be safe enough to explore and play on their own without you needing to keep an eye on them is a good way to get them set up for independent play.
This could either be their own playroom or bedroom, or some space in the living room where they can play. Just make sure there are no unsafe (or breakable!) objects within reach.
Keep toys in easy access
Now that your kids have their own space, make sure they also have easy access to toys and objects. Low shelves and a few storage buckets are great for this – unlike toy chests they keep your kids toys at eye level and are easy to grab.
You could also use household items in other parts of the house that let your kids play near you, but not with you. For example, try keeping a few safe kitchen utensils in a bottom drawer that they can pull out while you’re in the kitchen.
Ease your kids into it
If your kids are used to having you nearby all the time and your attention is in constant demand, you may need to ease them into playing independently.
First, try setting a timer. Let them know they will be playing on their own until the timer goes off, and then they’ll have you back again. Start with just a couple of minutes and build up from there. Remember that younger kids won’t be able to be left to their own devices as long as kids of primary-school age.
Start by showing them how to play with their toys and give them plenty of encouragement and praise for playing on their own.
Make independent play a regular part of your child’s routine
Young kids thrive on routine, so make sure to include independent play in their daily activities. Space out time for some solo play throughout the day, like when you’re doing housework, or in the morning and afternoon.
Don’t over do it with toys
You don’t need to spend a fortune on a bunch of brand new toys – it’s actually better to steer clear of battery-operated toys and instead opt for blocks, dolls, arts and crafts, puzzles and other toys and activities that kids can get immersed in.
Toys and activities that allow your little ones to use their imagination are the best tools for developing those creative thinking skills.
There is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Young children can get overwhelmed with too much choice, so try and limit just how many options are on hand. Try implementing a toy rotation system to keep them engaged – also a great solution if you don’t have much room to keep lots of toys in one space.
Choose toys that are appropriate for your kid’s age and personality
Get to know what they find fun and choose toys that suit them by coming up with activities for their independent playtime.
Educational toys, like a play kitchen or alphabet boards, are great for keeping your child entertained while also building up the skills they’ll need for pre-school.
But remember, you can always give younger kids household items or cardboard boxes to play with – the more open-ended, the better.
Some children are naturally happier to be left with their own company. For others, playing solo can be a nightmare. The most important thing is to be patient – once you’ve established an independent play routine with your kids they’ll find it easier to keep themselves entertained without you.